The answer is: b) water decomposes first The standard oxidation potentials are: 2 F- => F2 + 2 e-, E(oxidation) = -2.87 V 2 H2O => O2 + 4 H+ + 4 e-, E(oxidation) = -1.23 V Since H2O has a less negative oxidation potential, it is oxidized more easily than F-. Thus when a solution of F- ions in H2O is electrolyzed, the H2O will decompose first into O2 and H+, while the F- ions remain unreacted. Solution The answer is: b) water decomposes first The standard oxidation potentials are: 2 F- => F2 + 2 e-, E(oxidation) = -2.87 V 2 H2O => O2 + 4 H+ + 4 e-, E(oxidation) = -1.23 V Since H2O has a less negative oxidation potential, it is oxidized more easily than F-. Thus when a solution of F- ions in H2O is electrolyzed, the H2O will decompose first into O2 and H+, while the F- ions remain unreacted..